Since the beginning of time, man has sought ways to provide shelter. This shelter had to protect the early cave man from the harsh environment they faced. The cave men used sticks and leaves to protect themselves from the elements. The more advanced Egyptians started using strips of woven fabric to shade and protect themselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
The massive Roman coliseum at one time housed more than 80,000 people, stood 187 feet tall and covered six acres. Despite the massive size, the Romans were able to build a retractable awning. This massive retractable awning was supported by 240 masts and was adorned with cloth. Thus, the Romans, invented the shade sail.
Shade sails have made their way into history. During war time, surplus sails were used as shade on battlefields. In more recent peaceful times, shade sails have also provided coverage for children at play.
Previous materials used for shade sails were not durable and made from canvas materials used by the boating industry. The exposure to UV rays caused these materials to degenerate over time. Furthermore, the fabric was very heavy, bulky and not very long lasting.
In the 1980s modern technology brought about the invention of shade cloth. Shade cloth quickly gained popularity in very arid places such as Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. Additives are combined with the raw materials that prevent UV rays from damaging the cloth. Most shade cloths are rated for a UV lifetime of either 5 or 10 years.
By the early 1990s shade sails could be found all over Australia. Over 1200 companies now provide services from design, manufacturing and installation of shade sails. The high rate of skin cancer has prompted Australians to place an emphasis on ‘sun safety”. Commercial shade sails can work the same as putting on sunscreen by blocking up to 89% of UVA and UVB rays.
Today arrays of options exist for shade sails. Manufacturers produce ready made shade sails which can be stocked at stores worldwide. Other options, such as custom made shade sails exist as well. Shade sails are found in a variety of designs. You can purchase triangular, rectangular or square shade sails. Custom shade sail fabricators can produce virtually any size you can imagine. However, pre made shade sails can provide quick relief for a hot day.
Today shade sails are used to cover a variety of things. Children’s playgrounds as well as walkways and swimming pools are covered by shade sails. They can also be used to protect vehicles from UV exposure or provide shade for your outdoor patio. The possibilities of uses for shade sails are only limited by the
imagination.
Shade sails provide protection from the sun and are becoming increasingly popular in the United States as well as Canada. Due to the durability of the fabric, shade sails do not flap in the wind when installed properly. Furthermore, shade sails can be installed permanently as well as temporarily.
The benefits of shade sails are numerous. Shade sails are also very stylish, practical, and durable as well as affordable. It’s no wonder they are becoming ever so popular in the United States as well as around the world.
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